Top 5 Cities That People Are Moving to in 2017 and Why

Where Is Everyone Going to Be Moving to in 2017?

Every year, certain cities stand out as the hottest places to move to for that given year. Places like Austin, Raleigh, and Sacramento tend to be constant players thanks to their enduring and unique cultures, but by and large, it seems like every year’s list is a mish-mash of old standbys, long-time favorites, and a handful of energetic up-and-comers.

If you’re thinking about moving to a new city in 2017, then here are five cities where we’re expecting to see tremendous growth next year.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix might be a surprise addition to this list for some, especially because the city’s population actually dropped by 3.08% over the last year and it has an unemployment rate of almost 11%, but that’s for naught. Phoenix is set for a rebound and that rebound happens in 2017. The reason why Phoenix is such a contender and so attractive to movers is largely due to its incredible weather.

Additionally, The job market in Phoenix is on the rise and that’s being driven by an increase in shops and restaurants as well as a host of other businesses and industries. The housing market is also good, with plenty of inventory and a median home price that’s lower than the state average. Phoenix is also ideal for those who love outdoor activities. There’s everything from hiking to paddle boarding here, so there’s plenty to keep you excited over the long-term.

Bellevue, WA

Bellevue is a Seattle suburb, but living here will have you thinking you’re nowhere near one of the country’s most progressive cities. After all, Bellevue is surrounded by lakes, mountains, and plenty of lush parks, with acres and acres of wilderness spaces. As a result, the city’s residents enjoy an overabundance of outdoor recreation options.

Bellevue is also especially known for its festivals, museums, bike trails, restaurants, and music venues, all of which only add to the overall quality of life here. And, the fact that Bellevue’s schools are regularly recognized among the top in the country makes it an ideal contender for any family looking to move to a city with promise. With a median home price of $1.3 million, Bellevue’s cost of living is not for the faint of heart, but if you can afford the housing here, you’ll find a veritable heaven on earth.

Madison, WI

You can’t have a top cities list without including Madison, Wisconsin high up in the results. This city is so attractive to movers because it not only has one of the top rated health-care systems in the country, but it also has a very healthy economy and one of the highest performing school systems in the country, too. Being home to the University of Wisconsin might be one of the reasons for Madison’s large influx of new residents, but the fact that it is also the state capital doesn’t hurt.

Madison is the commercial and cultural hub of Wisconsin, so you’ll have no shortage of things do see and do here. Plus, the city’s diverse population lends a touch of culture throughout that’s seen in everything from its entertainment to its culinary scene. In fact, Madison has been such a popular place to move to in recent years that in 2016, the city’s housing market reached its historic high.

Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto is a city that offers its residents a superior quality of life that far surpasses what you might expect from a major city. For starters, the Silicon Valley city is surrounded by a 31-mile dark fiber ring that provides its residents with ultra-high-speed Internet. This fact alone sets Palo Alto apart, but there’s so much more that draws new residents here by the thousands. From impeccable parks to eclectic restaurants to high-rated high schools, Palo Alto has something for just about every type of resident.

Palo Alto’s population is also very politically active and socially engaged. Of course, Palo Alto’s proximity to Silicon Valley gives it a housing market that’s one of the most out of control in the nation, with rentals costing well over $5,000 a month. This can be off-putting to a lot of people, but in 2017, look for more homes to drop in price as Palo Alto’s market tries to right itself with more affordable inventory.

Ann Arbor, MI

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, higher education plays a significant role in why so many people choose to relocate to the city. And, it also impacts the overall quality of life in Ann Arbor, making it one of the best places to move to in 2017. Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor consistently rates as one of the best college towns in the country with the school itself playing a major role in the city’s culture and economy.

Need more reasons to move to Ann Arbor? How about the 150-plus parks, a wide diversity of restaurants and shops, the Huron River, and an abundant selection of entertainment options worthy of any college crowd. The city also enjoys a solid and stable housing market filled with opportunities for those looking to move here.

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Carson is a real estate agent based out of Phoenix, Arizona. Carson loves data and market research, and how readily available it is in today's world. He is passionate about interpreting these insights to help his clients find and buy their perfect home. Carson got into the real estate industry because he loves the feeling of handing over the keys to a new home to happy clients. In his free time, he works on his backyard bonsai garden and spends time with his wife, Julia.